The ships at Gloucester Tall Ships Festival

Looking right at home against the backdrop of Gloucester Docks’ Victorian warehouses, the main attractions at the festival are of course the awe-inspiring tall ships. The historic ships will sail into the docks before berthing for visitors to take aboard.

Living history at Gloucester Tall Ships Festival

Step back in time as pirates, street urchins and sailors descend on Gloucester Docks, one of the UK’s best-preserved Victorian ports. History enthusiasts can learn more about British maritime history and how Britannia came to rule the waves with appearances and demonstrations from the British Navy’s Red Coats.

On the water at Gloucester Tall Ships Festival

Take a look across the water and watch jet pack rocket man displays, Sea Cadet demonstrations and pirate shows, complete with canon fire and sword fighting between rival ships. The festival will also host one leg of the Industry Pro Wakeboard Tour where some of the world’s top wakeboarders will compete with their best jumps, spins and flips.

On land entertainment at Gloucester Tall Ships Festival

Landlubbers can enjoy three stages of live music, appearances from Captain Jack Sparrow, arts and crafts, a wave machine and even a zipwire across Gloucester Docks. Wristbands, which are valid for the whole three-day festival, also include entry to the National Waterways Museum and the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, meaning there truly is something for everyone.